The Normans - Hardcover

"The Normans" is the history of a dynasty. It is also the history of ruthless ambition, lust, rivalry and was between brothers and cousins. The Norman Conquest of England in 1066 was a critical moment in history. Following the death of Harold at the Battle of Hastings, it established William, Duke of Normandy, on the throne of England. Ending Anglo-Saxon rule in England, it tied England to Normandy and to involvement in France for the next 500 years. The Normans were pioneers of strong government and vigorous builders of churches and castles; yet William I's death was followed by civil war. Peace under Henry I was followed by final eclipse after the anarchy of Stephen's reign, when "Christ and his saints slept".

David Crouch books include The Reign of King Stephen, 1135-54 and The Image of Aristocracy in Britain, 1000-7300. He is Professor of History at the University of Hull.